City and England u19 midfielder George Evans insists that the Blues should have enough to see off Burnley in the fourth round of the FA Youth Cup – but only if they play to their very best.

Evans pulled the strings in front of the defence in round three when City dispatched Sunderland with an impressive 3-1 win and the midfielder from Cheadle wants more of the same when Burnley visit the Etihad Stadium on Thursday night.

“I think the lads played really well against Sunderland but we know that expectations are really high on us for this Youth Cup,” Evans said.

“We have a great set of players, a really talented squad and even with the expectations that are on us, if we play to our maximum, I think we can do well.”

That game against Sunderland represented the first occasion that a genuine under-18s side has been fielded by the club this season and George was pleased with the results.

“We’ve had a really young team in the league and I think in the last round there were nine or ten players who had played at under-21 level all season,” he stated.

“I think the game against Sunderland showed how much we are learning and developing from that experience.

“Playing at a higher age level is a much better task for us and I think it will make us better players in the end.”

...George Evans...

 

The tie against Burnley was due to take place at Edgeley Park but has been moved to the Etihad Stadium and Evans forecasts an entertaining cup tie against dangerous opposition.

“Playing at the stadium gives the game even more – for me, there’s nowhere better to play,” the 18-year old declared.

“Games like this one against Burnley are what the Youth Cup is all about – we know they knocked United out in the last round but teams will keep beating eachother.

“Still, I believe that on our day we can beat anyone, we know how hard we have to work but if we do that, and play to our maximum, we’re confident we can do enough to get through.”

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We are pleased to announce that we will be granting free entry to all Seasoncard holders to the FA Youth Cup fixture to be played at the Etihad on Thursday night.

Supporters must present their valid Seasoncard at entrance Y for free entry to the event. All seating is offered on an unreserved basis in Colin Bell Stand Level 1. 

All non Seasoncard holders must purchase a ticket from the Stadium Ticket Office from 5pm priced at £3 Adults, £1 Concessions (Under 16’s & Over 65s)